Business Scenario
A Business Scenario is a technique that is used during the various stages of the Enterprise architecture. The most common phases where Business Scenarios are implemented are during Phase A (Architecture Vision) and Phase B (Business Architecture). A Business Scenario is used to derive the characteristics of the architecture straight from the high-level requirements of the business or organisation.
Business Scenarios are helpful in identifying and understanding the needs of the business and therefore create the requirements of the business that the architecture development needs to address.
What is a Business Scenario?
A Business Scenario is able to be used at any stage of the Architecture Development Method if it is required. In TOGAF a Business Scenario is used to define the requirements of a customer. A Business Scenario should describe:
- The environment of the business and technology
- Business Processes and application(s)
- The components pertaining to people and comping (Otherwise known as Actors) who will execute the scenario
- The required outcome of proper execution
A Business Scenario should represent a significant problem or business requirement and allow vendors to understand the value of a solution to the customer.
In addition a Business Scenario should also be SMART.
- S – Specific by defining the exact requirements
- M – Measurable via clear metrics for success
- A – Actionable by clearly breaking down the issue and providing a clear basis for the solution
- R – Realistic in so far as that the issue can actually be solved given the constraints of time, physical reality and cost
- T – Timed meaning that the Business Scenario should have a clear statement of when the opportunity expires.